The Sweet Spot - Golf Podcast How Golfers Can Prevent and Manage Back Pain w/ Gavin Routledge
Aug 11, 2025
Gavin Routledge, an osteopath with 34 years of experience specializing in lower back pain, shares valuable insights for golfers struggling with discomfort. He discusses the 'Cliff of Pain' concept, revealing why back pain may originate from unexpected areas. Gavin emphasizes the power of mental resilience in recovery, outlines practical exercises, and highlights lifestyle changes that can make a significant difference. He also introduces his new book aimed at preventing and managing back pain for golfers, offering a comprehensive approach to enjoying the game pain-free.
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Early Injury Sparked A Career
- Gavin recounted playing rugby and getting injured as a kid, which sparked his lifelong interest in pain.
- That early experience led him to specialize in lower-back pain and later study pain management academically.
Cliff Of Pain Model
- Gavin Routledge frames pain as a metaphorical 'cliff of pain' where small triggers push you over the edge.
- Identify triggers and upstream risk factors that pushed you close to the edge before treating the flare.
Primary And Secondary Risk Factors
- Gavin distinguishes primary risk factors (peak, cumulative, sustained loading, stress, smoking, obesity) from secondary ones.
- Secondary factors like weak back endurance and catastrophizing convert short episodes into persistent problems.